I'm rebuilding an NA 1.8 engine with 10:1 pistons and some head work, but otherwise stock. My original OEM oil cooler may have had some metal go through it, so I need to replace it (the thing that sandwiches between the oil filter and the block). The car is used in WRL/Champcar, and people are telling me to replace that with an aftermarket oil cooler. I'm not sure I like the idea of adding complication.
Does it make sense to replace the stock part with aftermarket? Or is there a good source for a replacement OEM part (other than Mazda)?
Really, I'm not sure which way to go and I'm looking for advice from people who know these engines. Thanks for any guidance.